Semester in Amsterdam

Welcome to the world’s most diverse city! With residents hailing from over 180 countries, Amsterdam is considered to be one of the most multicultural cities in the world.Amsterdam's warm atmosphere and tolerant society is the true definition of the Dutch word "gezelligheid.”Don’t speak Dutch?Don’t worry!English is the unofficial second language and is widely used all over Amsterdam.With 75 world-renowned museums, more than 350 festivals a year, and the 17thcentury canal ring which is now a UNESCO world heritage site, Amsterdam is a bustling cosmopolitan city with a small-scale feel and somethingfor everyone.

Why the Semester in Amsterdam Program?

The Semester in Amsterdam program welcomes Bachelor and Master students to study for one or two semesters.Applicants choose from 350+ English-taught courses in seven faculties.Our on-site advisorswill guide you through the application, pre-departure, and arrival process. Whether you need help selecting the right courses, adjusting to the Dutch academic system, or integrating into local life, we are there to assist you.

Why Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam?

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam is a recognized research university with a centralized campus. Located in the southern business district, a multicultural and creative environment, the university is 15 minutes from the city center by bike.

Who is eligible?

Students from universities that are not partnered with VU Amsterdam or do not qualify for their university's exchange partnership with VU Amsterdam, i.e. "free movers" or "direct enrollments"

Students from providers and partner universities who have an official study abroad partnership with VU Amsterdam

Individuals not currently enrolled at a university but seeking academic or professional development opportunities

Standard admission criteria:

Bachelor applicants must be at least in their second year. Master applicants must have a completed Bachelor degree. Applicants not currently enrolled at a university should have completed at least a Bachelor degree.

Minimum GPA of 3.0 based on a 4.0 American scale; comparable to an A or B average on the ECTS system.

Official English language test scores for non-native English speakers are only required for students who want to take Master-level courses: TOEFL score paper based 580, computer-based 232, internet-based 92, or IELTS 6.5. However, in order to take Bachelor's courses in English, applicants should have mastered at least B2 level English.

Do you want to apply for a full degree at VU Amsterdam? Then check out our English-taught Bachelor's and Master's degrees.